president obama and governor romney have been practicing their paints and their counter points with debate partners. both camps have been sort of downplaying expectations by talking up their opponents. what happens tonight could change the momentum of the presidential race. preparations are under way for tonight's first presidential election debate in colorado. the showdown between president obama and republican candidate mitt romney will take place at the university of denver. up like debates in the past, organizes say this event will be a little different. >> so what is different about the format is that we are dividing the hour and a half debate into six discussion segments. we think that those extended discussion periods will help the viewers around the world really get a sense of the candidates' views on the key issue. >> reporter: the economy is a key issue on the campaign trail but since colorado is one of the few states that appears to be weathering the national economic downturn, some won't be voting with their pocketbooks. >> i'm really up in the air as to who i'm going to vote f